Major drama unfolded at the 2024 Ballon d’Or gala as Rodri emerged as a surprise winner of the prestigious trophy, ahead of Vinicius Jr.
This came as a shock to many, including the Real Madrid camp, who had almost taken Vinicius’ win for granted.
Apart from Real Madrid, various personalities across the footballing fraternity had backed the Brazilian to win the coveted trophy. But to everyone’s surprise, Rodri pipped the attacker in the voting, winning by a narrow margin.
There were repercussions of Rodri’s triumph on the night as the entire Real Madrid delegation skipped the event.
Real Madrid blames UEFA
Jorge Picon (h/t RM4Arab) has recently issued an update on the developing situation around Real Madrid, who are still disappointed with Vinicius’ snub from last night.
The report suggests Real Madrid are exclusively blaming UEFA. The club believes that European football’s governing body was the main orchestrator behind the Rodri win.
In fact, Real Madrid consider UEFA as their main enemy for multiple reasons. It must be noted that the two entities have had tensions in the past surrounding Madrid’s support of the European Super League.
Now, with UEFA collaborating with France Football for the first time since 1956 for the Ballon d’Or, Real Madrid believe the entity had played a key role in making sure Vinicius did not win the award.
Real Madrid also believe that the criteria considered for Rodri’s victory should have ideally led to Dani Carvajal winning the trophy.
For this decision, the club decided to skip the event as it believed their presence was not valued.